theaddictionconnection
theaddictionconnection
#354 - On the 9th Step of Christmas... (12 Steps) | Mark E. Shaw
#354 - On the 9th Step of Christmas... (12 Steps) | Mark E. Shaw
#354 - On the 9th Step of Christmas... (12 Steps) | Mark E. Shaw
Monday 22nd December 2025
Explore the ninth step of the 12-step programme with Dr. Mark E. Shaw, focusing on repentance and biblical guidance in recovery.
6 minutes
Informative
Inspiring
Encouraging
Hopeful
Authentic
About this podcast
Author:
theaddictionconnection
Overview:
Categories:
Religion & Spirituality
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Family Recovery from Addiction
Navigating Intimate Relationships
Creative Recovery Journeys
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Episodes:
358 (View all)
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Get the buttons here!Rethinking Repentance: The Ninth Step of Christmas
Episode Overview
- True repentance involves action beyond just words.
- Biblical counselling can provide essential guidance in recovery.
- Making amends should be balanced with wisdom to avoid harm.
- Faith and community support are crucial in addiction recovery.
- Avoid relying solely on human judgement; seek spiritual oversight.
"Making direct amends is great, but true repentance means making it right."
What drives someone to seek a life without alcohol? In this captivating episode, Dr. Mark E. Shaw delves into the intricacies of the ninth step in the 12-step programme, famously themed around the '12 Days of Christmas'. With a catchy rendition of 'The Twelve Days of Christmas: 12 Steps Edition', listeners are treated to an insightful look at making amends and the nuances involved in this critical step of recovery.
Shaw emphasises the importance of not just apologising, but truly repenting, which means going beyond words to actions that restore and make things right. The episode isn't shy about tackling the 'exception clauses' that accompany this step, sparking a thought-provoking discussion about when making amends might do more harm than good. Shaw encourages seeking guidance from biblical counselling, highlighting how wise counsel can help navigate these complex decisions.
He shares personal anecdotes and biblical references, offering a unique blend of spirituality and practical advice. Listeners will find themselves reflecting on the balance between wisdom and innocence, as Shaw draws from scriptures like Proverbs and Jeremiah to underline the pitfalls of relying solely on human judgement. It's a reminder that while the path to recovery is deeply personal, it benefits greatly from community and spiritual oversight.
If you're curious about how faith intersects with addiction recovery or looking for a fresh perspective on the traditional 12-step approach, this episode is a must-listen. It challenges you to think deeply about what true repentance means and how it can transform not just your journey, but also your relationships with others.